NEW plans are set to be unveiled for a multi-million pound overhaul of Frinton’s main shopping street.

Essex County Council is putting a blueprint together for the Frinton town centre improvement scheme.

The project will be put to residents early next year.

It is thought the plan, which could cost up to £3 million, will take place in four phases and could start as early as autumn next year.

The first phase will see Connaught Avenue, from Queens Road to Harold Road, spruced up with new pavements, street lighting, street furniture and bike stands.

Changes to the road could also see new “pinch points” – which will make crossing easier.

The street, commonly referred to as the Bond Street of the east, has over the years seen a number of unused shops fall into disrepair.

But Jamie Nicoll, chairman of Frinton Chamber of Commerce, said: “Obviously it’s going to have a negative impact while works are carried out, but I think in the long-run it will make the avenue more attractive and more up-to-date in a classical style.

impact “It will attract people to shops in the town and highway improvements will make it safer for pedestrians – at the moment the pavement is like a roller-coaster.

“I think it will have a positive impact on the avenue.”

Frinton and Walton Town Council mayor Terry Allen also welcomed the plans.

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